The Skinny on the Deadliest Skin Cancer

A skin cancer that targets pigment-producing skin cells, called melanocytes.

It’s rare, accounting for 1 percent of skin cancer diagnoses.

It’s deadly, accounting for the majority of skin cancer-related deaths.

There are four main types, listed from most to least common:

1. Superficial spreading.

• Skin-based tumor.
• Presents as a mole that has:

Asymmetry

Border irregularity

Color that’s uneven

Diameter greater than six millimeters

Evolving characteristics

2. Nodular

• Red or flesh-colored lesions.

3. Lentigo maligna

• Presents as age spots.
• Typically arises in elderly patients due to sun exposure.

4. Acral lentiginous

• Affects areas not exposed to the sun, like the palms of the hand or soles of the feet.
• Often not identified early.

Treatment

Treatment options have drastically improved in the last two decades. Northwestern Medicine offers hope through leading-edge treatments.

Treatment depends on the stage of the melanoma and the patient. It could involve surgically removing affected areas or lymph nodes, or immunotherapy.

Risks

• Melanoma is more common in Caucasians.
• Your risk is higher if you have a family history of melanoma.
• Excess exposure to UV rays increases your risk of melanoma.

Prevention

• Be safe when exposed to UV rays.
• See a dermatologist annually.
• See a physician immediately if you notice changes in your skin or moles.